When it comes to planning the perfect romantic getaway in Minnesota, few experiences rival an afternoon of wine tasting at St. Croix Vineyards in Stillwater. Located among rolling hills and lush countryside just east of the Twin Cities, St. Croix Vineyards offers couples an intimate escape where the pace slows, the conversation flows, and every sip tells the story of Minnesota’s rich winemaking heritage. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, or simply carving out time for one another, the vineyard sets the stage beautifully, with handcrafted award-winning wines served in their warm and welcoming tasting room.
Stillwater itself is a destination tailor-made for romance. If you’re looking for things to do in Stillwater, this charming river town on the St. Croix delivers. Stroll hand-in-hand down Main Street and browse its eclectic mix of boutique shops, galleries, and antique stores. Take a scenic cruise along the St. Croix River, or rent a kayak for a more adventurous outing on the water. History lovers will adore exploring the iconic Lift Bridge and the many beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings that line the streets. Come winter, the town transforms into a cozy snow-globe escape; come summer, rooftop patios and riverfront dining make it one of the most romantic destinations in the state.
No romantic getaway in MN is complete without the perfect place to stay, and for couples visiting Stillwater, Water Street Inn stands in a class of its own. Our Boutique Hotel sits right on the banks of the St. Croix River, offering elegantly appointed rooms, fireside suites, and sweeping river views. Guests rave about our warm service and the unbeatable location just steps from Stillwater’s best dining, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you’re arriving for a weekend of wine tasting or simply looking for a luxurious base to explore everything this region has to offer, Water Street Inn delivers an experience that elevates the entire trip. Book your stay today!
Try Award-Winning Wines at St. Croix Vineyards
There’s something undeniably special about visiting a place that has been doing what it loves since before most people were thinking about Minnesota wine. St. Croix Vineyards has been crafting exceptional wines since 1992, making it the oldest continuously owned winery in Minnesota, long before most people were thinking about wine from the Midwest.
The accolades tell the story of how well they’ve mastered their craft. With multiple awards at both the prestigious International Cold Climate Wine Competition and the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, this Stillwater winery has firmly established itself as one of the premier destinations for wine lovers in the state. Their Marquette is bursting with aromas of spice, cherry, and blackberry, with hints of smoke and vanilla. This bold, beautiful red earned Double Gold and Best of Class honors at the 2025 International Cold Climate Wine Competition. That kind of recognition doesn’t happen by accident; it’s the result of decades of passion, precision, and a genuine love for the land.
Spread across four stunning acres, the vineyard tends more than 1,600 vines across two vineyards, cultivating over six varieties of grapes, including Maréchal Foch and several cold-hardy varietals developed in partnership with the University of Minnesota specifically for the region’s demanding climate. Every bottle is produced and bottled entirely in-house, so when you raise a glass here, you’re tasting something truly local from vine to cork.
St. Croix Vineyards also holds the distinction of being the first winery in the United States to produce Frontenac Port, a pioneering achievement that reflects the adventurous spirit at the heart of everything they do. Roses are planted at the ends of vineyard rows; they serve as an early warning system for mildew, while chives and raspberries are thoughtfully grown throughout to attract pollinators. It’s a vineyard that works in harmony with nature at every turn.
Step inside the tasting room at St. Croix Vineyards and you’ll immediately understand why this place has earned such a devoted following. Housed in a warm, rustic barn, no reservations are required for a standard visit; simply show up, settle in, and explore a menu that includes not only award-winning wines but also food, drinks, and non-alcoholic options for every guest.
For couples seeking a more intimate experience, a private tasting room with a personalized experience is available by reservation; the perfect way to make your visit feel truly one-of-a-kind. When the weather turns beautiful, move the party outside to the sunny deck, where a glass of wine and a vineyard view make for an afternoon that’s hard to improve upon. The vineyard also shares its gorgeous grounds with the beloved Aamodt’s Apple Farm.
One of the most magical things about St. Croix Vineyards is that the experience extends well beyond the tasting room. The vineyards are open for strolling year-round, giving visitors a chance to wander among the rows of vines, breathe in the fresh countryside air, and connect with the landscape behind every bottle. From June through October, free guided tours run every Saturday at 1:00 p.m., offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how the team grows, harvests, and crafts their celebrated wines. Friday afternoons bring Happy Hour from 3–5 p.m., and the calendar stays lively with Wine and Painting parties, Sunday morning Yoga in the Vines, and the delightfully creative Sip and Sourdough events.
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Wine Meets Art Festival each June, a vibrant day of local arts and crafts, food, and live music set against the backdrop of the vineyard. Theater fans can catch a performance of The Hobbit presented by the Zephyr Theatre, and in September, the fun reaches a fever pitch at Minnesota’s original Grape Stomp: a beloved annual tradition featuring live music, food trucks, mini massages, tours, and prizes for the most spirited stomping style.
For anyone planning weekend winery getaways or searching for exceptional wine tasting near Minneapolis, St. Croix Vineyards isn’t just a stop on the itinerary; it is the itinerary.
Make It a Weekend: Stay at Water Street Inn
A wine tasting experience as memorable as St. Croix Vineyards deserves an equally unforgettable place to stay, and our Boutique Hotel delivers on every level. Perfectly situated in the heart of historic Stillwater along the banks of the St. Croix River, we are widely regarded as the finest choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway in MN. Our prime location puts you steps away from Stillwater’s best dining, boutique shopping, and riverfront adventures, making it the ideal home base for exploring everything this charming town has to offer.
From the award-winning wines and rich heritage of St. Croix Vineyards to the riverside romance of our Boutique Hotel, Stillwater has everything you need for a truly exceptional weekend escape. For Twin Cities couples searching for wine tasting near Minneapolis without sacrificing charm and luxury, look no further. Reserve your room now!
